Refrigerant is the secret ingredient that makes air conditioning work. Without it, your AC would just be a big fan pushing warm air around the house. The refrigerant moves through your system, absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside, keeping your living space nice and cool. However, not all refrigerants are the same, and the type your system uses can greatly affect everything from performance to environmental impact.
If you’ve got an older AC unit, there’s a good chance it runs on R-22. And if you’ve had to top off your refrigerant or get repairs, you might have noticed the cost increase. That’s because R-22 is no longer being produced, and the available supply is limited. But why is that the case? What is R-22, and why is it being phased out? Let’s go over everything you need to know.
What R-22 Is and Why It Is Being Phased Out
R-22, also known as Freon, is a type of refrigerant that has been widely used in air conditioning systems for decades. It’s technically called chlorodifluoromethane, which is a mouthful, but the key thing to know is that it’s part of a group of chemicals that are bad for the environment.
The problem? R-22 contributes to ozone depletion and has a high global warming potential. When it leaks into the atmosphere, it breaks down the ozone layer, which protects us from harmful ultraviolet rays. Because of its environmental impact, regulations were put in place to reduce and eventually stop the production of R-22.
The Montreal Protocol, an international agreement aimed at protecting the ozone layer, set the stage for this phase-out. In the U.S., the Clean Air Act enforced it, leading to a gradual reduction of R-22 production. By 2020, R-22 was no longer being manufactured or imported. That means that today, the only available R-22 comes from recovered, recycled, or reclaimed sources.
The Impact of the R-22 Refrigerant Phase-Out
So, what does the R-22 phase-out mean for homeowners? If your AC system still runs on R-22, you have a few things to consider:
R-22 Is Expensive and Hard to Find
Because R-22 is no longer being produced, the supply is shrinking, and the price keeps going up. If your system leaks or needs a refrigerant recharge, you’ll most likely be paying a premium.
Repairs Are Getting More Costly
Any maintenance or repairs involving R-22 can be pricey, not just because of the refrigerant cost but also due to the availability of compatible parts. Older systems tend to require more upkeep, and at a certain point, the expense of keeping an old AC running might outweigh the cost of upgrading.
Environmental Considerations
With climate change being a growing concern, many homeowners are choosing to move away from R-22 for environmental reasons. Sustainability is a big deal, and switching to a more environmentally friendly refrigerant is one way to reduce your home’s impact on the planet.
2025 Refrigerant Changes: What You Need to Know
Just as we’re wrapping up the R-22 refrigerant phase-out, another change is happening. The HVAC industry is moving away from R-410A, the refrigerant that replaced R-22, because it has a high global warming potential (GWP).
The New Refrigerants
Starting on January 1, 2025, manufacturers began using more environmentally friendly options like R-454B and R-32. These refrigerants have a lower impact on the atmosphere, making them a better long-term choice for cooling homes without contributing as much to climate change.
If you’re shopping for a new HVAC system, make sure it’s compatible with these newer refrigerants. This will help you avoid another costly upgrade down the line.
What Are Your Options If Your AC Uses R-22?
If your AC system still runs on R-22, you’re not out of luck. Here are your options:
Keep Your Existing System (But Prepare for Higher Costs)
If your AC is still working fine and you don’t have leaks, you can continue using it. Just be aware that repairs and refrigerant refills will be costly as supplies dwindle. Regular maintenance can help extend its life, but eventually, you’ll need to upgrade.
Retrofit Your System
In some cases, it’s possible to modify your existing unit to work with a newer refrigerant. This process, known as retrofitting, isn’t always a perfect solution, as it can reduce efficiency and may void warranties. If your system is older, you might be better off replacing it altogether.
Upgrade to a New AC System
Is your AC over ten years old? Replacing it with a newer, energy-efficient model could be a smart move. If you’re considering a new system now that you know about the R-22 refrigerant phase-out, turn to Erica’s Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Restoration for a new AC installation in Boca Raton, FL. We can help you upgrade to a modern, cost-effective unit.
Benefits of Upgrading Your AC
Investing in a new air conditioner may seem like a big expense, but it comes with plenty of advantages:
- Lower Utility Bills: Newer systems use less energy, saving you money each month.
- Better Cooling Performance: You’ll enjoy more consistent temperature control and improved indoor air quality.
- Tax Credits & Rebates: Some high-efficiency models qualify for tax credits, helping offset the initial cost.
- Fewer Repairs: Say goodbye to costly refrigerant leaks and constant breakdowns.
- More Environmentally Friendly: New refrigerants don’t contribute to ozone depletion and have a lower global warming potential.
Choose Erica’s Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Restoration for Your AC Needs in Boca Raton!
So, what is R-22, and why is it being phased out? As you can see, R-22 is an older refrigerant that was commonly used in AC systems but has been phased out due to its harmful effects on the ozone layer. The R-22 refrigerant phase-out means homeowners with older AC units face rising repair costs and limited refrigerant availability.
At Erica’s Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Restoration, we know how important it is to have a reliable air conditioner— especially in Florida’s heat. We’ve been proudly women-owned and operated since 2009, and we treat every customer like family. If you’re thinking about upgrading your system, we’ll walk you through your options so you can make the best choice for your home.
Need AC service in Boca Raton or one of the surrounding communities? Schedule an appointment today! We’ll help you stay cool and comfortable, no matter what refrigerant changes are on the horizon.
